What is the formula for calculating fat mass?

The formula for calculating fat mass requires an understanding of how body fat percentage relates to total body weight. The correct approach is to multiply the current body weight by the body fat percentage expressed as a decimal.

Using the formula, fat mass is determined by taking the current body weight and multiplying it by the percentage of body fat divided by 100. This converts the percentage into a decimal format which allows for direct calculation. For instance, if a person weighs 70 kg and has a body fat percentage of 20%, you would calculate fat mass as follows:

70 kg x (20 / 100) = 70 kg x 0.2 = 14 kg of fat mass.

This formula effectively provides the total weight of fat in the body, which can be essential for assessing health and fitness levels. Understanding this relationship is critical for anyone involved in nutritional analysis and weight management, as it provides a quantitative measure of body composition.